What is Common Purpose?
We believe that:
- the problems that most need solving cross boundaries – and the way to solve them is to do the same
- leaders are most effective when they broaden their horizons and their networks
- real change doesn’t just happen: leaders need to make it happen.
That’s why we deliver unique leadership development programmes which:
- are rooted in real life, not in the classroom
- attract leaders from unexpected places
- involve participants in a wide range of unfamiliar leadership situations
- prize diversity as a source of creativity and deeper problem-solving.
Through this, we aim to:
- give leaders the skills, the connections and the inspiration they need to lead more effectively
- challenge them to extend their influence - and take responsibility - beyond their own organisation, locality and culture, not just within it
- inspire leaders to effect real change, both at work and in the wider world.
We run open and customised programmes for leaders of all ages, backgrounds and sectors. All our programmes help leaders learn to Lead Beyond Authority, both as professionals and citizens. People who Lead Beyond Authority can produce change beyond their direct circle of control. Our participants don't just sit in meeting rooms studying abstract management problems or wrestling with intellectual exercises.
They go out into their own community and grapple with real life problems at first hand through a challenging mix of behind-the-scenes briefings, leadership insights through access to key players, real-life case studies, peer consultancy, problem-solving of real leadership challenges and group learning sessions.
All Common Purpose programmes and activities share the same long-term ambitions: better decision-making in all sectors, more effective solutions to common problems, more engaged and active citizens and, ultimately, stronger communities. Participants, and their organisations, consistently report better strategic thinking, better decision-making, dramatically enhanced leadership competencies and a greater ability to apply them in new situations.